In a groundbreaking discovery along the Santa Cruz River in Southern Arizona, archaeologists unearthed a bronze cannon, believed to be the oldest firearm ever found in the continental United States. This wall gun, dating back to the 1539-1542 Coronado expedition, sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history.
Published in the International Journal of Historical Archaeology, the research details the significance of this finding. The cannon, the first of its kind linked to the Coronado expedition, predates all other known firearms discovered within the continental US. Dr. Deni J. Seymour and her colleagues highlight the potential for this to be the oldest cannon found on the continent.
This medieval-style bronze gun, measuring 42 inches in length and weighing approximately 40 pounds, likely originated from Mexico or the Caribbean, its simple design suggesting its production location. Researchers believe it was mounted on a wooden tripod and used for fortification defense, capable of launching lead balls over 700 yards.
Discovered in the fall of 2020 at the San Geronimo III settlement, the cannon was found on the floor of a Spanish stone-and-adobe structure. Radiocarbon dating and optically stimulated luminescence techniques confirmed its age, aligning with the Coronado expedition's timeframe. Francisco Vázquez de Coronado's expedition sought the fabled "Seven Cities of Cíbola," but instead encountered Indigenous settlements and landmarks such as the Grand Canyon.
The unloaded state of the cannon, with no evidence of firing, suggests its abandonment during a sudden retreat. Researchers hypothesize that an attack on the settlement led to its hasty desertion, leaving the firearm behind for centuries. Additional artifacts discovered at the site include sword and dagger fragments, along with everyday items like fishhooks, clothing fasteners, and pieces of copper vessels.
Further investigation is planned to delve deeper into the cannon's history and analyze the accompanying artifacts for future publications. This remarkable discovery provides valuable insights into early Spanish exploration and settlement in the American Southwest.
